Planned mass surveillance: WhatsApp and Threema are strictly against chat control
WhatsApp and Threema, two popular encrypted messaging services, have voiced strong opposition to the proposed EU "Chat Control" initiative. Both platforms, joining Signal, argue that the measures undermine end-to-end encryption, thereby jeopardizing user privacy, freedom, and digital security. This opposition highlights growing concerns among tech companies about the implications of the EU's digital surveillance efforts. WhatsApp's parent company, Meta, stated that the latest EU Council Presidency proposal still undermines end-to-end encryption. Threema also opposes mass surveillance in any form, arguing that confidential conversations should be possible online as they are in the physical world. Both platforms emphasize that mass surveillance is not an effective tool for combating crime and is incompatible with democratic principles. The impact of Chat Control could be significant, potentially forcing messaging services to weaken their encryption or even withdraw from the European market. The proposed EU regulation aims to combat the spread of child sexual abuse material, but it has faced criticism for its potential to introduce mass surveillance. The law is currently being negotiated between the European Parliament, the Commission, and the Council. Threema has stated it will thoroughly assess all options once the wording is finalized after the trialogue negotiations, anticipating that the current form of Chat Control might not align with EU fundamental rights. The company also highlights potential technological security risks.
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